Job Description

Community Resource Worker - FASD

JOB SUMMARY:

The goals of the ECD programs are focused on providing services for Aboriginal children aged 0-6. We will provide healthy starts for these children and their families, using a family centered strength based approach. We aim to have the capacity to meet their children's developmental needs in a culturally appropriate manner.

This position is responsible for working with parents/caregivers/family of children and/or with parents who may be experiencing the effects of FASD and work to improve the quality of those affected by FASD. This position will provide education and training in order to increase awareness and community readiness to deal with FASD. The worker will provide in-home support; guidance to parents/caregivers/family members in developing their skills; support on parenting the child and offer resources and supports.

REPORTS TO:

ECD Program Manager and Executive Director

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Promote and support traditional cultural teachings and practice for our families, agency, and community.
To build and maintain a supportive, trusting relationship with families and caregivers.

Facilitate parent education sessions and groups to increase awareness and parents' knowledge of FASD and preventative measures.

To provide strategies and tools to empower parents and caregivers to meet the needs of those affected by FASD.

Make home visits to assess the child's development using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire and plan with parents an ongoing program and monitor progress. Assist families to help better understand the early assessment, diagnosis process and assist families to navigate through the early school process. Be present during appointments and scheduled meetings as requested and needed by the families.
Use cultural traditional practices that focus on the mind, emotion, body and spirit and recognize family strengths and asset, while implementing the Seven Sacred Teachings and Medicine Wheel teachings.

Develop and implement culturally appropriate training and resources for the community to increase the community's capacity to meet the needs of those affected by FASD.

Maintain liaison with other health and social service professionals and professionals who work with Aboriginal families. Collaborate with community professionals on issues such as early identification, assessment and diagnosis.

Make appropriate referrals for further assessment and or support or counseling to other agencies or professionals as necessary, such as but not limited: Sunny Hill and the Asante Center.

Responsible for individual client scheduling.

Maintain an appropriate record and information system. Prepare program annual and monthly reports and provide accurate data when needed. Ensure that accurate program and client records are maintained and that confidentiality is a priority. Ensure that all pertinent registration requirements and documentation is complete.

Responsible for development and facilitation of programs such as, the FASD Support Group.

Ensuring all aspects of the program are maintained and accurate such as: registration, program promotion, petty- cash, program budgeting, and purchasing of supplies.

Support the ECD, AIDP, and FDP teams through FASD presentations and education.

Provide assistance when needed in agency programs such as, but not limited to; Building Healthy Relationships with Our Children, Hase, ECD Drop-in programs, new parents groups, father involvement programs, Aboriginal Mother Goose programs and Elders' teachings sessions. Participate in agency events and planning such as, but not limited to; Annual Mini-Teaching Pow-wow, Aboriginal Day Celebrations, Welcome Home Ceremony, Family Nights, and Family Christmas Gathering.
Adheres to the policies and standards of Spirit of the Children Society, as established in policy and program manuals, Health & Safety Guidelines, job descriptions, written memos, and verbal agreements.

Participate in team meetings, agency meetings, professional and cultural training deemed necessary for this position.

To participate in agency event planning such as, but not limited to: Annual Mini-Teaching Pow-wow and Family Christmas Gathering.

To maintain a healthy and safe environment. Comply with WCB health and safety standards.

Maintain health records and administer first aid and medications as required. Observe and remove potential hazards. Report all incidents of suspected child abuse and follow organizations procedures and government legislation.

Comply with all legal and licensing requirements.

Assist ECD Program Manager with administration tasks as needed such as: proposal writing and grant reporting.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience

Degree level training in a field related to Infant development and/or Early Childhood Development (Nursing, Education, Psychology, Social Sciences) or the equivalent in working with FASD children, their families and other professions. Direct program delivery experience in the community social service sector with a demonstrated working knowledge of family centered care, early intervention child development, and community-based programs preferred. Minimum of 3 years' experience in working with children and families affected by FASD and a working knowledge of the stages of early childhood development.

Skills and Attributes

Well-developed assessment skills, supportive counselling and solid advocacy skills and the ability to foster strong relationships with families and community professionals. Demonstrated ability to teach skills such as life skills, home management, parenting skills, and behavior management. Knowledge and experience of group process and facilitation techniques. An outgoing, energetic individual who has an excellent understanding of Aboriginal culture and traditions. Strong interpersonal skills, good organization, time and general management skills. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Reliable transportation and hold valid BC driver's license. Knowledge of Aboriginal communities, organizations, and service providers within Circle 6.
Current and valid Driver's License and willing to obtain business insurance and liability coverage.

Driver's Abstract required.

Criminal records check required.

If lack of capacity is an issue then educated candidates who have excellent qualifications, who may not meet all of the qualification requirements, may be considered for mentoring into this position. A mentored candidate will have two years to reach required educational milestones outlined by the ECD Program Manager.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

This is a full time position during the contract year from April 1 - March 31. This position is dependent upon negotiated funding.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $30.20-33.50/Hour

Benefits:

Dental care Extended health care Paid time off
Schedule:

Monday to Friday 35 hours per week Shifts usually 8:30am-4:00pm or 9:00am-4:30pm
Work Location: In person

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

All workers must be aware of the potential for allegations to be brought against them by clients and therefore, must conduct themselves in a manner where behaviors'/actions cannot be misinterpreted. Workers are required to take precautionary measures and to follow safety guidelines to ensure their safety. Workers must be aware of the risks when working with potentially hostile or aggressive clients and follow safety guidelines to ensure their safety.

Workers must maintain confidentiality, undergo annual successful criminal record checks, and to be sensitive to diversity among clients, co-workers and the community.

This position will be exposed to a high level of noise and distractions from children. Direct delivery may include moderate physical activity involving walking, standing, bending, and lifting children.

People of Aboriginal Ancestry are strongly encouraged to apply. Please self-identify.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $30.20-$33.50 per hour

Expected hours: 35 per week

Benefits:

Company events Dental care Extended health care Mileage reimbursement On-site parking Paid time off Tuition reimbursement Vision care
Work Location: In person